SAN FRANCISCO (AP) The San Francisco 49ers were hosting free agent linebacker Lance Briggs at team headquarters Monday.

Briggs' agent, Drew Rosenhaus, confirmed the visit. The Niners are in need of linebackers following the surprising retirements this offseason of five-time All-Pro Patrick Willis and then Chris Borland following his standout rookie season.

The 34-year-old Briggs went on the reserve/injured list in late November with a groin injury, and played in only eight games last season for Chicago.